Barcelona star picks Arsenal player as world’s best in his position

Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia has ignited debate in Spanish football circles after naming Arsenal’s David Raya as the planet’s premier goalkeeper, bypassing both national-team starter Unai Simon and himself in the process. Speaking to El Larguero this week, Garcia offered an unvarnished assessment of the Premier League’s form stopper.

“I like David Raya,” Garcia said. “I think he’s having a fantastic season in the Premier League. I also think he’s under very high demands, especially regarding set pieces, as we mentioned before, and with his feet too. The level is very high, and I’m really enjoying his season.”

The endorsement carries extra weight because Raya, 28, remains Simon’s deputy at international level. Simon has reclaimed the Spain No. 1 jersey since returning from injury late in 2024, starting every match under manager Luis de la Fuente. Garcia, currently in the Spain camp ahead of this month’s fixtures, might have been expected to back his compatriot, yet he opted for the Gunners’ first-choice instead.

The praise intensifies scrutiny on De la Fuente ahead of this summer’s tournament. While Simon’s résumé includes multiple European Championships, Nations League finals and the 2022 World Cup, his club form has been eclipsed this season by both Raya and Garcia. Raya has logged just one Spain appearance—during Euro 2024—while Garcia is still awaiting his senior debut, leaving the coach to balance experience against current performance.

Spain’s goalkeeper hierarchy, once settled, now poses a genuine selection dilemma: back the battle-tested Simon or elevate the in-form contenders. De la Fuente’s final call could shape La Roja’s fortunes on the biggest stage.